2000 Disaster Emergency Needs Assessment Disaster Preparedness Training Programme IFRC

7/27/2019 2000 Disaster Emergency Needs Assessment Disaster Preparedness Training Programme IFRC

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Disaster EmergencyNeeds Assessment

Disaster Preparedness Training Programme

Participant resource

& learning module

Assess Situation

Choose Objectives &

Identify Alternatives

Implement

Response

International Federationof Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
http://../DPTP.pdfhttp://../DPTP.pdfhttp://www.ifrc.org/http://www.ifrc.org/http://../DPTP.pdfhttp://www.ifrc.org/


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Disemnas.doc June 2000 2/46

Disaster Preparedness Training ProgrammeInternational Federationof Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Table of Contents

BACKGROUND AND USES .................................................................................................4

THE NINE DISASTER PREPAREDNESS MODULES AND TRAINER'S NOTES......5

AIMS AND AUDIENCE.........................................................................................................6

MAIN POINTS ........................................................................................................................6

1. OVERVIEW OF DISASTER NEEDS ASSESSMENT.................................................6

1.1 ROLE OFNATIONAL SOCIETIES IN DISASTER RESPONSE...................................................6

1.2 PURPOSE OF DISASTER NEEDS ASSESSMENTS...................................................................7

1.3 EMERGENCY RESPONSE PRIORITIES.................................................................................7

2. EMERGENCY RESPONSE BASED ON EMERGENCY ASSESSMENTS..............8

2.1 ASSESSING THE SITUATION..............................................................................................9

2.2 CHOOSING OBJECTIVES AND IDENTIFYING ALTERNATIVES ..............................................9

2.3 IMPLEMENTING RESPONSE PLANS ..................................................................................10

3. DISASTER NEEDS ASSESSMENT REPORTING....................................................10

3.1 FORECASTING AND EARLY WARNING ............................................................................11

3.2 DISASTER EARLY NOTIFICATION....................................................................................11

3.3 DISASTER NEEDS ASSESSMENT......................................................................................11

3.4 MONITORING ................................................................................................................12

4. ASSESSMENT SOURCES AND METHODS..............................................................12

4.1 ON-SITE VISUAL INSPECTION .........................................................................................12

4.2 INTERVIEWS..................................................................................................................12

4.3 SAMPLING.....................................................................................................................13

4.4 RELYING ON SECONDARY SOURCES ..............................................................................13

5. MINIMISING ASSESSMENT BIAS.............................................................................14

5.1 TRIANGULATION ...........................................................................................................15

5.2 TEAM AND JOINT ASSESSMENTS ....................................................................................15

6. ASSESSMENT TOOLS..................................................................................................16

6.1 CHECKLISTS ..................................................................................................................166.2 GAP IDENTIFICATION CHARTS .......................................................................................16

6.3 QUESTIONNAIRES..........................................................................................................17

7. FINDING RECURRENT PATTERNS IN EMERGENCIES.....................................17

7.1 EARTHQUAKES .............................................................................................................19

7.2 MUD AND DEBRIS FLOWS ..............................................................................................20

7.3 LANDSLIDES .................................................................................................................20

7.4 VOLCANIC ERUPTIONS ..................................................................................................21

7.5 TSUNAMIS.....................................................................................................................22

7.6 DROUGHTS ...................................................................................................................23

7.7 FLOODS.........................................................................................................................24


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7.8 TROPICAL CYCLONES ....................................................................................................25

7.9 CHEMICAL AND INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS.......................................................................26

7.10 DISPLACED POPULATIONS ..........................................................................................27

ANNEX 1A: DISASTER NEEDS ASSESSMENT REPORT FORM

WITH INSTRUCTIONS........................................................................................................28

ANNEX 1B: DISASTER NEEDS ASSESSMENT REPORT FORM..............................34

ANNEX 2: RAPID NEEDS ASSESSMENT CHECKLIST ..............................................43

ANNEX 3: SAMPLE QUESTIONS FOR A SURVEY OF FAMILY NEEDS................44

ANNEX 4: SAMPLE CHECKLIST FOR INITIAL HEALTH ASSESSMENT ............45


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Background and uses

This module is one of nine modules that have been prepared by INTERWORKS for the

International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Disaster Preparedness

office in Geneva. This module can be used as for independent study, as a reference guide

on the subject, and to provide participants at a workshop training event on this topic. It isintended to accompany the trainer's notes on this topic. Their intended use is global, and

they are written for generalists, planners and professionals with disaster preparedness

and/or emergency response responsibilities both within the Federation and in the National

Societies. Non-governmental organisations interested in disaster preparedness and

preparedness planning, government emergency commissions, local disaster committees and

civil defence training units may also find these modules useful.

This material can be used as:

A general reference material on disaster preparedness

Training and workshop modules and trainer's guides

An orientation to disaster preparedness for Delegates and NS officers

A guide for assessing or planning disaster preparedness capabilities

All nine of these modules are revised and updated versions of modules that were initially

developed for the Central Asia IFRC Disaster Preparedness Regional Delegation DP

project in 1998. This project resulted from recommendations and training needs expressed

by Central Asian National Society and Emergency Commission staff attending the IFRC

sponsored regional disaster preparedness conference held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan from

June 24-26, 1996.

The overall aim of the Central Asia DP training project was to support the NationalSocieties in further developing their own structures for preparedness in conjunction with

those of the Emergency Committees, Ministries and Civil Defence organisations in each of

the five countries in the region. To date, disaster preparedness in the region has been

typified by highly response oriented, well maintained and trained Civil Defence

organisations; and largely unprepared, and untrained local populations and non-

governmental organisations. Disaster management has traditionally consisted of

preparedness for efficient and centralised emergency response, not the development of

community-based or localised preparedness capacity. The Central Asia DP training

programme was one attempt to change this emphasis and was proposed as a starting point

from which revisions, and modifications for use on a country-by-country basis were

expected and welcomed.

This material is based on a multi-hazard approach, and is typically applicable to

preparedness in all of the hazard situations represented. However, the specific country

context of the readers and trainees will necessitate a focus on the hazard types that are most

applicable to their situation. While the modules and accompanying trainers notes are

written for use at national level workshops, individuals with training responsibilities are

encouraged to use and adapt the material for use at more local regions and towns.


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The nine disaster preparedness modules and trainer's notes

Disaster Preparedness Preparedness Planning Risk Reduction

Increasing CommunityDisaster Awareness

Disaster Emergency

Needs Assessment

Disaster ProgrammeInformation and Reporting

Improving Coordination Improving BasicTraining Skills

ProjectPlanning

Acknowledgements

These nine modules and their accompanying trainer's notes were prepared for theInternational Federation by INTERWORKS, a consulting group with disaster management

training and consulting experience in over 60 countries worldwide. Review and critique of

these modules were provided by a team of Central Asian disaster management specialists,

the disaster preparedness officers of five Central Asia National Societies, the Federation

disaster preparedness staff in Geneva and delegates in Central Asia, the Caribbean and East

Africa.

The following documents served as references for the compilation and writing of this

particular module:

1. Building Capacities for Risk Reduction, Lynne Bethke, Paul Thompson, James Good of

InterWorks for UN DHA Disaster Management Training Programme. 1997.

2. Disaster Assessment, 1st edition, Module prepared by R.S. Stephenson, Ph.D., UNDP/

UNDRO Disaster Management Training Programme, 1991.

3. Humanitarian Charter and Minimum Standards in Disaster Response, The Sphere

Project, 1999 web page, http://www.sphereproject.org.

4. IFRC Handbook for Delegates, 1997, Needs Assessment, Targeting Beneficiaries.

5. Introduction to Hazards, 3rd edition. Sheila Reed of InterWorks for UN DHA Disaster

Management Training Programme. 1997.

6. "Preparation of an Appeal for International Assistance for Disaster Response

Operations: Guidelines for Pacific Red Cross National Societies," revised RDS -

September 1997.


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Disaster Emergency Needs Assessment

Aims and audience

This module introduces basic concepts and approaches related to disaster situation andemergency needs assessments and presents post-disaster assistance needs typically

associated with various types of natural hazards. In addition, this module presents a

disaster assessment reporting format that National Societies can use for reporting purposes.

This module is appropriate for staff and personnel with little experience in conducting

disaster needs assessments or completing international appeals forms following a disaster,

but who have responsibility for these functions. This module does not cover address needs

assessments for identifying specific and detailed sectoral needsthis is usually the work of

sectoral specialists.

Main points the purpose of disaster needs assessment

the link between disaster needs assessments and emergency response decision making

basic methods and tools for collecting assessment information and ways to minimiseassessment bias

typical adverse effects and post-disaster needs commonly arising from specific hazardtypes

disaster needs assessment reporting format

priorities in emergency response and needs assessment

sample format for survey of household emergency needs

1. Overview of disaster needs assessment

1.1 Role of Nat ional Societ ies in disaster respo nse

In the event of a disaster causing extensive damage and/or loss of life or casualties, the

responsibility of the National Society (NS) in that country is to provide humanitarian

assistance to those affected by the disaster.

The actual form of assistance to be provided and the specific role of the NS in disaster

relief operations should be negotiated with the Government beforehand and incorporated

into the NS Disaster Preparedness Plan and the Government Plan where possible. The NS

in such an operation will always act as an auxiliary to the Government within the mandate

of the Fundamental Principles of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. Once the NS

has established its specific role in the relief operation, it is then essential to proceed as

quickly as possible to implement it. A disaster needs assessment will help guide

implementation of the response.


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1.2 Purpo se of disaster needs assessm ents

A disaster needs assessment will serve two primary purposes for the NS. First, it will

inform the NS's own response priorities and plans. Second, it can support the NS's

international appeal for outside assistance should the disaster be of such a magnitude that

the NS cannot meet its humanitarian obligation within the limits of its own resources. The

format included in Annex 1 can be used to form the basis of an international appeal for

assistance coordinated through the Federation or can be used to facilitate a disaster needs

assessment, even when an appeal is not required.

In the latter case, the disaster needs assessment will help NS emergency response decision-

makers determine and implement appropriate emergency response measures. To plan

effective response efforts, decision makers need to know:

whether or not an emergency exists

the demographics of the affected population and the number of people affected

the details of the emergency (cause, location, magnitude of disaster, etc.)

the condition of the affected population (mortality and morbidity rates)

the local response capacities and available resources, including organisational and

logistical capabilities

the extent and type of life-saving needs and priorities

the likelihood of additional future problems or needs

The starting point for any assessment is identification of the eventual users of the

information and their particular information needs. Data, which include perceptions,numbers and facts, only become useful information when they are meaningful, relevant and

understandable at particular times and places, for specific purposes.

1.3 Emergenc y respon se prio r i t ies

Disaster emergency response should address the immediate and priority needs resulting

from a disaster. Common priority emergency needs following a disaster include the

following list. The disaster assessment will need to determine the existence of these needs

as well as their scope.

1. Provide basic life support needs: drinking water and sanitation, adequate food,appropriate medical assistance, shelter (through housing and clothing) and fuel (for

cooking and heating)

2. Protect disaster victims from physical violence and aggression, particularly in disasters

involving refugees and internally displaced persons

3. Address the psychological and social stress caused by the disaster, providing the

victims with psychological and social support


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National Societies and the Federation are invariably active at the first level, occasionally at

the second and increasingly at the third. Once the basic life support needs are met,

attention can be directed to other less urgent but important needs.1

2. Emergency response based on emergency assessments

Organisations involved in emergency response should assess the emergency situation and

choose their objectives before implementing response activities. Organisations that provide

relief without first assessing the disaster impact, the resulting needs, and the local response

capacities will most likely offer assistance that is unnecessary and inappropriate and which

supplants local efforts. Ideally, an emergency response should consist of the following

three stages: assessing the situation, choosing objectives and identifying intervention

alternatives, and implementing response based on the objectives and alternatives.

As the diagram implies, disaster assessment should be an ongoing and repetitive process.

This reflects the fact that circumstances, information availability, and emergency needs

change over time. When and how often different assessments are conducted will depend

on the type of disaster, available resources and specific information needs. Generally,

information should be collected more frequently the more a situation changes and when

there are critical developments, such as a secondary disaster, new population movements or

an epidemic outbreak. The objectives of the assessment and the data-gathering techniques

will change as the response evolves. Initial assessments can be quick and unrefined, but

should improve as more time and data become available.

It is clear that effective interventions are time-critical and rely greatly on resources already

present in the affected area. Most of these can be pre-planned. In the immediate aftermath

of a disaster, there will be insufficient time for extensive or detailed assessments and the

organisation of large-scale external support. For earthquakes, in particular, search and

rescue and early emergency medical care must rely substantially on local resources.

Accurate and credible information telling decision-makers what is not needed can help

reduce the overall complexity of the logistical response.

1IFRC Handbook for Delegates (1997): Needs Assessment, Targeting Beneficiaries. p. 657.

Assess Situation

Choose Objectives &

Identify Alternatives

Implement

Response

Emergency Response Decision Making Process


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2.1 Ass essing the situat ion

At the outset of any emergency, initial assessments should be timely and inform emergency

responders about critical and immediate life-saving needs. In disastersespecially rapid

onset disasters or sudden population influxesthere will be great uncertainty about the

actual problems. Therefore, decision makers should use a systematic assessment approachto develop a picture of where people are, what condition they are in, what they are doing,

what their needs and resources are, and what services are still available to them. After an

initial assessment, more in-depth emergency needs assessments need to be conducted to

collect information related to critical sectors and technical areas of concern.

The minimum humanitarian standards in disaster response developed by the Sphere Project

can assist organisations in prioritising information collection needs and planning an

appropriate level of response.2 It is important that before the field assessment is conducted,

the logistics of conducting the assessment and the standards that will be used are agreed

upon by everyone on the assessment team. Assessment tasks should be assigned

accordingly. The Sphere Project includes information on the following sectors:

Water supply and sanitation

Nutrition

Food aid

Shelter and site planning

Health services

In addition to these sectors, assessment teams may want to collect information on personal

and household needs; agricultural, economic and infrastructure damage; and the political

and security situation.

2.2 Choo sing ob ject ives and ident i fy ing alternat ives

Initially, this stage requires analysis and interpretation of the data with a focus on

identifying the risks to various populations. There should be an attempt to define

alternatives for reducing immediate risks. It is important to have a detailed understanding

of the general risks associated with a particular type of emergency and how these may

change (see Section 7 of this paper for more detail). Some general risks frequently present

in the emergency phase are:

Continuing presence of hazard agentssecondary flooding, fire, landslides,extreme cold, chemical pollution, etc.

Loss of lifeline servicesclean water, waste disposal, medical treatment

Inadequate supply of emergency clinical services

2The entire manual,Humanitarian Charter and Minimum Standards in Disaster Response, can be downloaded from theThe Sphere Project website http://www.sphereproject.org, or can be ordered through Oxfam publishing at Bournemouth

Book Centre (BEBC), PO Box 1496, Parkstone, Dorset BH12 3YD, Tel: +44 (0) 1202 712933,

Fax: +44 (0) 1202 712930. The Sphere Project can be contacted at: P.O. Box 372, 1211 Geneva 19, Switzerland, Tel:

(41 22) 730 4501 Fax: (41 22) 730 4905.


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Inadequate supply of essential foods

Effects of severe climatic conditions exacerbated by lack of shelter, warm clothingor heating fuel

Given adequate information, central decision makers will be able to gauge local response

capacity (including government, Red Cross and Red Crescent) and decide how best to use

existing resources for immediate relief. In addition, they will determine their own agencys

response objectives and intervention alternatives. If the affected population is in need of

food aid, an agency must decide how best to provide it. Should it purchase the food outside

of the affected area and transport it in? Should they attempt to purchase food on the local

market? Or, should food be provided as part of a Food-for-Work program?

A second important element in this stage is forecastingan attempt to develop a set of

predictions based on the relationship between needs, resources and changing conditions

over time. In particular, assessors should judge whether resources can actually be made

available in time to deal with particular problems before their importance fades.Forecasting is particularly critical early on, when the pattern of need is changing very

quickly. For example, decisions on emergency medical care and search and rescue during

earthquakes are so time-sensitive that even a few hours delay can lead to an almost total

waste of resources. There will also be a need to identify major secondary threats to

survivors, such as secondary flooding or landslides, damage to chemical plants or fuel

storage fires, etc.

2.3 Imp lement ing respo nse plans

In the early phases of a disaster, assessment activities give decision makers the information

they need to set the objectives and policies for emergency assistance. In addition,assessment information helps decision-makers take account of the priorities of the affected

population and decide how best to use existing resources for relief and recovery. Response

planning and implementation involve allocating and scheduling resourcesincluding

people, equipment and suppliesto meet specific relief objectives and later to fulfil

recovery and development goals. During this stage, assessments provide information on

the progress of recovery, highlighting areas requiring further analysis and intervention.

3. Disaster needs assessment reporting

While the precise assessment approach to use depends on the exact type of hazard, the

following diagram illustrates the concept of conducting ongoing and repetitive assessments

throughout the phases of a disaster. The diagram is followed by a more in-depth discussion

of the different types of assessment reporting needs.

Ongoing assessment approach for rapid-onset natural disasters

Pre-disaster Post-disaster

When possible First 10 hours 12-36 hours (& then, as needed) 7-15 days 30-60days

3

months

disaster


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Assessment

type

Forecasting &

early warning

Disaster (early)

notification

More detailed disaster needs

assessment

Ongoing monitoring of

situation and needs

Information

needs

Collect and

disseminate

early warning

information

(especially for

flash floods,

tsunamis, storms,

volcanoes, forest

fires, etc.)

Alert headquarters

Disaster type, date

# casualties reported

# properties damagedand type of damage

Immediate emergencypriority needs (e.g.

search & rescue, first

aid)

Assessment team

Disaster magnitude

Geographic area affected

Detailed assessment of needs andresources and other responders

Define intervention for ensuing weeksand months (if necessary)

Continued monitoring and

assessment

Ongoing situation, responseand needs

Changes in status and needs

Need for longer-termassistance and rehabilitation

(after 3 months)

Plan of action for assistanceto continue past 3 months

3.1 Forecast ing and early warnin g

For many types of natural disastersflash floods, storms, forest fires, volcanoes,

tsunamisforecasting and early warning information and communication systems need tobe in place. Assessments for these systems collect and disseminate information on the

potential development of the disaster, and determine the extent to which affected

populations are taking measures to protect lives and facilities from expected hazard impact.

Capable organisations will also want to prepare for the implementation of post-disaster

response and assessments.

3.2 Disaster early no t i f icat ion

In the first few hours of a disaster, decisive action is necessary. In sudden onset disasters,

local officials should issue a preliminary disaster early notification as soon as possibleafter the disaster occurrencepreferably within the first 10 hours after a disaster. This

early notification alerts headquarters that a disaster has occurred and approximates the

magnitude and location of the disaster and immediate priorities, such as search and rescue,

and on-site first aid.

3.3 Disaster needs assessm ent

Early notification is followed by a more complete disaster needs assessment usually within

the first 12-36 hours after the disaster occurs. This assessment will provide additional

general information about the disaster: the damage, urgent needs and priorities, and actualresponse measures being taken. Disaster needs assessments will need to be updated as more

information becomes available and as the situation changes. For a sample format that

National Societies can use to conduct a disaster needs assessment, refer toAnnex 1:

Disaster Needs Assessment Reporting Form.

Usually within 36-72 hours after a disaster occurs, a team of sectoral specialists should

conduct a rapid, yet detailed assessment of specific damages, resources, response

mechanisms and precise needs within the different sectors: water and sanitation, emergency

health, food and nutrition, shelter and household needs, infrastructure and communications,

etc. Their job will be to forecast sectoral needs for the next 3-7 days, 7-28 days and 28-90

days. If it appears that the emergency will extend from weeks into months, then thesespecialists should help define specific interventions for the ensuing months.


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3.4 Monitor ing

After the first three days, additional assessments should be planned as needed, e.g. 7-15

days, 30-60 days, and 3 months after the disaster occurrence. Newly evolving

circumstances, local efforts and capacities and official response measures will all affect the

status of the emergency situation and needs. It is important to monitor the situation and theevolving needs over time to gauge whether additional or longer-term assistance is required.

The performance of the emergency response program also needs to be monitored for

effectiveness, and modifications made accordingly.

4. Assessment sources and methods

Information for the assessment report can be compiled from existing literature, relevant

historical material, pre-emergency data and from discussions and interviews with

appropriate, knowledgeable people including donors, agency staff, government personnel,

local specialists, female and male community leaders, elders, participating health staff,

teachers, traders and so on. There are a variety of assessment methods that can be used tocollect data. On-site visual inspection, interviews and sampling are commonly used

methods.

4.1 On-si te visu al insp ect ion

On-site visual inspection is an excellent way to become familiar with a disaster situation.

Experienced observers can gather information quickly if they know what they are looking

for. Further investigation is often needed, however, as some details may be hidden from

view. Combined with interviews, on-site visual inspection is a good method for an initial

assessment.

On-Site Visual Inspection Tasks

Observe peoples physical condition and activities; ask questions

Visit homes or shelters, water sources, clinics, distribution centres

Observe children, the elderly and the sick

Observe the daily lives of women (use women as interviewers)

Observe the services, vehicles, sanitation systems Make sketches, take photographs or use videos. Photos, video footage and even

hand sketches are extremely useful in communicating to others the reality of the

situation.

4.2 Interviews

Interviewing techniques can include interviews with individuals or with groups. Loosely

structured interviews are conducted with key informants in the government, NGOs and

within particular groups of the affected population including: local officials, local (non-

official) leaders and experts, local media sources, and leaders of the affected population.The focus is on obtaining factual information that is cross-checked with other sources.


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Group interviews,conducted withthe affected population, local leaders, or officials, can

be useful for cross-checking information with a number of respondents. In some cases

group interviews may be valuable for getting a sense of the issues affecting all members of

the group (rather than individual issues). Over-reliance on group interviews, however, may

leave information gaps because there may be issues that are not discussed in groups or

because some people may not be represented in public groups (especially women).

4.3 Sampling

Sampling is a method by which a generalisation about an entire population is made based

on the characteristics of a subset (or sample) of the population. Attributes or proportions of

a population are estimated through interviews or surveys with a representative section or

sample of the population. Information collected through sampling methods includes

written questionnaires and interviews.

There are two types of sampling techniques: probability and non-probability. Probability

sampling is based on rigorous statistical methods. It is expensive and time-consuming to

implement and requires special training to be used correctly. Non-probability methods are

commonly used and rely on interviews with those who are most accessible (convenience

sampling) or with individuals that are believed to be representative of the population of

interest (purposive sampling).

4.4 Relying on secon dary sou rces

National Societies will sometimes depend on government agencies, non-governmental

organisations or community groups for their information. When relying on information

provided by another organisation, it is important to carefully consider its accuracy andwhether information from one source contradicts information from another. Especially,

when using secondary data, check for consistency between multiple sources of similar data

if possible. When evaluating assessment information, consider:

Who did the assessment? What experience/expertise do they have in this area?

How much time did the assessment team spend on-site? Did they visit the site?

Whom did the assessment team interview? What important beneficiary groups did theyfail to consider?

If the assessment report contains statistical data, are they primary or secondary data? If

they are secondary data, what is the original source? Does the team have the expertiseto judge the validity of statistical information? If not, which experts should they

consult?

What is the possibility of a segment of the population (e.g. an ethnic, class, national,geographic, religious, or vulnerable group) being inadequately assessed?

Considering the source of information, what biases may be reflected in the assessmentfindings?

Does the NGO or government have an interest in presenting biased information?

What are the governments interests in presenting biased information? Does thegovernments information appear misleading?


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5. Minimising assessment bias

All data collection methods are subject to the problem of bias. Bias leads to

misinterpretation of answers or mistaken analysis that draws conclusions from information

which is not representative of the affected population. In the worst cases, programs based

on biased information have caused harm to the populations they were meant to help andnegatively affected agencies' reputations. Bias can result from leading questions (those

which propose an answer), poorly worded or poorly understood questions, poor sampling

techniques, or the particular bias of the assessors or reviewers. Specific forms of bias

include:

Spatial bias

Issues of comfort and ease for the assessors determine the assessment site. Rather than

travel into an area, the assessors conduct a "windshield" survey, never leaving the comfort

or straying far from their truck.

Project bias

The assessor is drawn toward sites where contacts and information are readily available and

may have been assessed before by many others.

Person bias

Key informants tend to be those who are in a high position and have the ability to

communicate in a language known to the assessor. They may or may not be conscientious,

insightful or respected by those they are purporting to represent.

Season bias

Assessments are conducted during periods of pleasant weather or areas cut off by bad

weather go unassessed. Thus, many typical problems go unnoticed.

Mandate or special ty bias

The specialty or mandate of the assessor blinds them to needs outside of his/her specialty.

For example, a shelter specialist may primarily only assess shelter needs, neglecting

nutrition and water needs.

Poli tical bias

Informants present information that is skewed toward their political agenda. Assessors look

for information that fits their political or personal agenda.

Cultur al bias

Incorrect assumptions are made based on ones own cultural norms. Assessors do not

understand the cultural practices of the affected populations.

Class/ethn ic bias

Needs and resources of different classes of people or different ethnic groups are not

included in the assessment. Local assessors may have this ethnic bias, or the key informants

may only represent one social class or ethnic group.

I nterviewer or investigator

Assessors may have a tendency to concentrate on information that confirms preconceived

notions and hypotheses, causing them to seek consistency too early and overlook evidence

inconsistent with earlier findings. Assessors may also exhibit partiality to the opinions of

elite key informants.Key in formant bias


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Biases of key informants are carried into assessment results.

Gender bias

Assessors only speak to men or male interviewers survey women, or vice versa.

Time of day or schedule

The assessment is conducted at a time of day when certain segments of the population maybe over- or under-represented.

Sampling bias

Respondents are not representative of the population.

Being aware of different types of bias is the first step in minimising its impact on your

assessment.

5.1 Triangulation

Triangulation is one method for minimising bias that requires the assessors to seek out,compare and correlate several sources of information. Triangulation is based on the

principle that data must be obtained from at least two other known points (see picture

below). Information for emergency assessments must come from different sources to

provide a relatively accurate assessment of the situation.

Source 2 Source 1

Assessment

information

Principle of TriangulationPrinciple of Triangulation

Triangulation may be achieved through the use of different assessment techniques or

approaches or by using different indicators of the same phenomenon and consulting different

sources. The different approaches or indicators may be compared to the two arrows in the

diagram above. The key to using different approaches is to find dissimilar methods or

techniques that will not be subject to the same type of bias. Do not rely on a single method or

a single measure of a problem. Triangulation can be applied to almost all aspects of the

preparation and implementation of an emergency assessment.

5.2 Team and joint assessments

Using a team assessment approach, and paying attention to the composition of the assessment

team is another way to minimise bias. By including a variety of specialists and generalists on

the team and by striking a gender balance, many types of biases can be avoided. The following

box provides an overview of roles and competencies that might be considered when composing

assessment teams.

Assessment Teams


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Team coordinator/liaison Logistics specialists

Public healthepidemiologist

Food and nutrition specialists

Shelter specialists Environmental health/water supply

specialists

To add additional perspective and diversity to the team, the team may also include a mix of

local and external team members. Local people may know the local situation and customs but

may also bring certain types of local biases and preconceptions damaging to the accuracy of

the assessment. The external "outsider," on the other hand, while less familiar with the

situation, may be able to provide the expertise and perspective of distance that is also needed

in making useful assessments.

6. Assessment tools

Checklists, gap-identification tables, and questionnaires are assessment tools that can assist

in conducting systematic emergency situation and needs assessments.

6.1 Checkl ists

Checklists are perhaps the easiest and most complete tools for a rapid initial assessment. A

checklist is an abbreviated list that prompts assessors to remember key points and ask

certain questions; they can also be useful for documenting responses. (For examples of

checklists, see Annex 2 Rapid Needs Assessment Checklist, or the attached SphereSample Checklist for Initial Health Assessment in Annex 4).3 The categories represented

on reporting Form ENA-1 in Annex 3 can also serve as a checklist of questions to ask and

information to collect.

6.2 Gap ident i f icat ion charts

Gap identification charts, illustrated in the following diagram, are used to organise

information and highlight gaps between needs and resources in an emergency response.

3The Sphere Project Manual has additional checklists and questionnaires for the various sectors.


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Emergency response gap identification chart

Emergency

response needs

Affected

Popu-

lations

Local

Govern-

ment

National

Govern-

ment

Civil

Defence

Red

Cross/

Red

Crescent

Ministry

of Health

United

Nations

Agencies

Other

Interna-

tional

organi-sations

Medical

Public health

Food

Shelter

Water

Sanitation

Clothing

The emergency response needs are listed in the first column and the various emergency

response actors, including local populations, are listed in the top row. The table is

completed by identifying the resources provided by the affected population and by

governments and organisations responding to the emergency. Using this chart for analysis

will help emergency responders ensure that emergency needs are met most efficiently and

effectively.

6.3 Quest ionnaires

When conducting individual key informant or group interviews, the assessor may want to

develop or use questionnaires. A questionnaire is simply a list of questions for an

individual or group of people to answer orally or in writing. The recorded results are later

tabulated and analysed. (See Annex 3, Sample Questions for a Survey of Family Needs.)

7. Finding recurrent patterns in emergencies

In sudden-impact disasters the key to effective life-saving relief is specific, precisely targeted

interventions against demonstrated causes of death. Patterns abound in emergencies andthere is sufficient scientific evidence to suggest typical adverse effects and disaster

assistance needs. This is not to say that all emergencies are the same; they are not. To

argue that they are all completely unique, however, rules out very important information

gained by those who have been part of other emergency responses.

The following section provides an overview of typical adverse effects and disaster needs

related to different types of hazards. Knowing this information can assist assessors in

planning their assessments and disaster response. The hazards considered are:

Earthquakes Volcanic eruptions


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Land instabilities

Flood and water hazards

Storms (typhoons, hurricanes, tropical storms and tornadoes)

Droughts

Chemical and industrial accidents

While not a natural hazard, massive populations movements displaced by natural disasters

or civil strife create serious humanitarian emergencies and so also are included in this

discussion.


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7.1 Earthquakes

General

characteristics

Shaking of earth caused by waves on or below the earth's surface

causing: surface faulting; aftershocks; tsunamis; tremors, vibrations;

liquefaction; and landslides.

Typical adverse

effects

Physical damageDamage or loss of structures or infrastructure.Fires, dam failures, landslides, flooding may occur.

CasualtiesOften high, particularly near epicentre, in highlypopulated areas or where buildings are not resistant.

Public healthFracture injuries most widespread problem.

Water supplySevere problems likely due to damage to watersystems, pollution of open wells and changes in water table.

Secondary threats due to flooding, contaminated water supply, orbreakdown in sanitary conditions.

Typical disaster

assistance needs

The immediate impact of an earthquake affects all sectors of a

community. Local authorities should initially emphasise search and

rescue assistance. Emergency medical assistance must be provided,

especially during the first 72 hours. An emergency situation and

needs assessment should be conducted during the first 36-72 hours.

Finally, the survivors will require relief assistance such as food, water,

and emergency shelter. Attention should be given to re-opening roads,

re-establishing communications, contacting remote areas and

conducting disaster assessments.

At the end of the emergency period, long-term recovery needs to take

priority. The post earthquake period presents an opportunity to

minimise future risks through enactment or strengthening of land use

and building codes as rebuilding takes place. The focus should be on:

repair and reconstruction of water, sewer, electrical services androads

technical, material and financial assistance for repair andreconstruction of houses and public buildings (preferably by

incorporating earthquake resistant techniques)

programs to rejuvenate the economy

financial assistance for loans to individuals and businesses foreconomic recovery


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7.2 Mud and debris f lows

General

characteristics

Mud and debris flows can arise as a result of heavy storms, abundant

rains, breaks of mountain (usually glacial) lakes, or in hot weather as a

result of intensive glacier melting. This is a process whereby considerable

mud flows are carried out along the bottom of mountain valleys. Veryoften debris flows cut off rivers. When this occurs, a dam may form

resulting in flooding upstream. A break in this dam, however, may cause

flooding down the river stream.

Typical adverse

effects Physical damageEverything in the path of debris flows is usually

destroyed, including roads, bridges, electric lines, and constructions.

Often irrigation nets are destroyed and agricultural areas are covered

with silt.

CasualtiesPeople in the path of a mud flow may perish. In addition,people may be lost and injured as a result of secondary floods.

Typical disaster

assistance needs

In the direct impact area of mudslides, there may be a need for search and

rescue of victims. In isolated locations there may be a need to use special

equipment. Emergency shelter may be required for those whose homes

have been lost or damaged. Secondary effects of mud flows, such as

flooding, may require additional assistance measures.

7.3 Landsl ides

General

characteristics

Landslides vary in types of movement (falls, slides, topples, lateral spreads,

flows), and may be secondary effects of heavy storms and earthquakes.

Landslides are more widespread than any other geological event.

Typical adverse

effects

Physical damageAnything on top or in the path of a landslide will sufferdamage. Rubble may block roads, lines of communication or waterways.

Indirect effects may include loss of agricultural or forest land productivity,

flooding, reduced property values.

CasualtiesFatalities have occurred due to slope failures. Catastrophic

debris flows and mudflows have killed many thousands.

Typical disaster

assistance needs

Needs for the direct impact area of a landslide include search and rescue

equipment and personnel, and possibly use of earth removal equipment.

Emergency shelter may be required for those whose homes have been lost

or damaged. Experts trained in landslide hazard evaluation should be

consulted to determine whether slide conditions pose an additional threat

to rescuers or residents. If the landslide is related to an earthquake or

flood, assistance to the landslide-affected area will be part of the total

disaster assistance effort.


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7.4 Volcanic erupt ion s

General

characteristics

Types of volcanoes are cindercones, shield volcanoes, composite

volcanoes and lava domes. Magma flowing out to the surface is lava and

all solid particles ejected are tephra. Damage results from the type of

material ejected such as ash, pyroclastic flows (blasts of gas containingash and fragments), mud, debris, and lava flows.

Typical adverse

effects

Settlements, infrastructure and agricultureComplete destruction ofeverything in the path of pyroclastic, mud or lava flows, including

vegetation, agricultural land, human settlements, structures, bridges,

roads and other infrastructure. Structures may collapse under the

weight of wet ash. Transportation by land, sea and air may be

affected.

Crops and food suppliesDestruction of crops in path of flows,livestock may inhale toxic gases or ash, grazing lands may be

contaminated.

Casualties and healthDeaths from pyroclastic flows, mud flows andpossibly lava flows and toxic gases. Injuries from falling rock and

burns, respiratory difficulties from gas and ash. Fracture injuries are

the most widespread problem.

Typical disaster

assistance needs

Response to a volcanic eruption must be swift and efficient. Effective

warning systems must be in place. Initially, local authorities must ensure

that the area is evacuated and medical care is provided to victims. Search

and rescue will also be important. Feeding and shelter is normally

required and may be assisted by donations or personnel from foreign

sources.

The secondary response by local authorities involves relocating victims

and providing financial assistance for replacement housing, agriculture

and small businesses. Volcano disasters occasionally require temporary

shelters, but more often, large volcanoes such as Ruiz, Pinatubo, and Mt.

St. Helens, continue to erupt in a manner that threatens large populations

for months to years. This may necessitate permanent resettlement of

residents or long-term emergency settlements. Emphasis should also be

placed on re-establishing infrastructure and communications that have

been damaged or disrupted.

Cleanup of ash is an important step in the recovery process. Volcanic ash

makes excellent foundation material for roads, runways and building sites.


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7.5 Tsunamis

General

characteristics

Tsunami waves are barely perceptible in deep water and may measure

160 km between wave crests. They may consist of ten or more wave

crests and can move up to 800 km per hour in deep ocean water,

diminishing in speed as they approach the shore. They may strike shore incrashing waves or may inundate the land. Whether or not there is severe

flooding will depend on the shape of the shoreline and tides.

Typical adverse

effects

Physical damageThe force of water can raze everything in its pathbut the majority of damage to structures and infrastructure results from

flooding. Withdrawal of the wave from shore scours out sediment and

can collapse ports and buildings and batter boats.

Crops and food suppliesHarvests, food stocks, livestock, farmimplements and fishing boats may be lost. Land may be rendered

infertile due to salt water incursion.

Casualties and public healthDeaths occur primarily by drowningand injuries from battering by debris.

Typical disaster

assistance needs

Initial local responses include:

Implement warning and evacuation procedures (before the event)

Perform search and rescue in the disaster area

Provide medical assistance

Conduct disaster assessment and epidemiological surveillance

Provide short-term food, water and shelter

Secondary responses include:

Repair and reconstruct buildings and homes

Provide assistance to agricultural areas.


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7.6 Droughts

General

characteristics

The reduction of water or moisture availability is temporary and

significant in relation to the norm. Meteorological drought is reduction in

rainfall and hydrological drought is reduction in water resources.

Agricultural drought is the impact of drought on human activityinfluenced by various factors: the presence of irrigation systems, moisture

retention capacity of the soil, the timing of rainfall and adaptive behaviour

of farmers.

Typical Adverse

Effects

EconomicLosses in production of crops, dairy and livestock, timberand fisheries; loss of national economic growth and development;

income losses for farmers and others directly affected; losses from

tourism and recreational businesses; loss of hydroelectric power and

increased energy costs; decline in food production and increased food

prices; unemployment from drought related production declines;revenue losses to government and increased strain on financial

institutions.

EnvironmentalDamage to the habitat of animal and fish species;wind and water erosion of soils; damage to plant species; effects on

water quality (salination); effects on air quality (dust, pollutants,

reduced visibility)

Social/ heathFood shortage effects (malnutrition, famine); loss ofhuman life from food shortage or drought-related conditions; conflicts

between water users; health problems due to decreased water flow;

inequity in the distribution of drought impacts and relief assistance;

decline in living conditions in rural areas; increased poverty, reduced

quality of life; social unrest and civil strife; population migration for

employment or relief assistance.

Typical disaster

assistance needs

The drought affected population will need assistance to replace assets lost

during the period of temporary food insecurity and, where realistic, to re-

establish their livelihoods. The severity of the food insecurity episode will

determine the nature and scale of rehabilitation requirements. Thus, if

migration to camps and significantly increased morbidity has occurred, a

comprehensive rehabilitation program will be required. This may involve

health care, counselling, assisting the migrants back to their homes and

material support to re-establish their homes and productive activities.

Such provisions may include seeds, tools, cooking utensils, blankets, and

support until households are capable of supporting themselves. If the

impact of the temporary food insecurity episode has not been severe and

most households have not been obliged to sell productive assets (e.g.

consume seed stocks and breeding livestock) then a rehabilitation program

may not be required. Therefore rehabilitation needs should be carefully

assessed and interventions tailored to each particular situation.


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7.7 Floods

General

characteristics

There are several types of floods:

Flash floodsaccelerated runoff, dam failure, breakup of ice jam

River floodsSlow buildup, usually seasonal

Coastal floodsAssociated with storm surges, tsunami waves, tropical

cyclones

Typical adverse

effects

Physical damageStructures damaged by washing away, becominginundated, collapsing, and impact of floating debris.

Casualties and public healthDeaths from drowning but few seriousinjuries. Possible outbreaks of malaria, diarrhoea and viral infections.

Water suppliesPossible contamination of wells and groundwater.Clean water may be unavailable.

Crops and food suppliesHarvests and food stocks may be lost due toinundation. Animals, farm tools and seeds may be lost.

Secondary threats due to landslides from saturated soils and debrisflows. Damage greater in valleys than open areas.

Typical disaster

assistance needs

The initial response to flooding by local authorities should include:

Search and rescue

Medical assistance

Disaster assessment

Short term food and water provision

Water purification Epidemiological surveillance

Temporary shelter


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7.8 Tropical cyclo nes

General

characteristics

When the cyclone strikes land, high winds, exceptional rainfall and storm

surges cause damage with secondary flooding and landslides.

Typical adverseeffects

Physical damageStructures lost and damaged by wind force,flooding, storm surge and landslides. Erosion could occur from

flooding and storm surges.

Casualties and public healthGenerally there are relatively fewfatalities but there may be numerous casualties requiring hospital

treatment. Storm surges usually cause many deaths but few injuries

among the survivors. Injuries that do occur may be caused by flying

debris or flooding. Contamination of water supplies may lead to viral

outbreaks and malaria.

Water supplyOpen wells and ground water may be contaminated by

flood waters and storm surges. Normal water sources may beunavailable for several days.

Crops and food suppliesHigh winds and rain can ruin standingcrops, tree plantations and food stocks. Plantation crops such as

bananas and coconuts are extremely vulnerable.

Communication and logisticsSevere disruption is possible as windbrings down telephone lines, antennae and satellite disks. Transport

may be curtailed.

Typical disaster

assistance needs

The initial response by local authorities, organisations and population will

include:

evacuation and emergency shelter search and rescue

medical assistance

provision of short term food and water

water purification

epidemiological surveillance

reestablishment of logistical and communications networks

disaster assessment

brush and debris clearance

provision of seeds for planting


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7.9 Chemical and indu str ia l accidents

General

characteristics

Chemical and industrial accidents release hazardous (toxic) substances

into the environment. These accidents may occur when trains carrying

chemicals derail, when trucks overturn, when pipelines rupture releasing

dangerous chemicals and gases into the environment, and when chemicalor nuclear power plants develop accidental leaks and releases. Hazardous

substances released into the air or water can travel long distances.

Typical adverse

effects

Physical damageDamage or destruction may occur to structuresand infrastructure. Transportation accidents damage vehicles and

other objects on impact. Industrial fires may reach high temperatures

and affect large areas.

CasualtiesMany people may be killed or injured and requiremedical treatment

Crop, livestock and food suppliesMay contaminate crops, foodsupplies and livestock.

EnvironmentalContamination of air, water supply, and land mayoccur. Areas may become uninhabitable. Ecological systems may be

disrupted even on a global scale.

Typical disaster

assistance needs

In the event of a chemical disaster, medical and emergency teams should

remove all injured persons from the scene of the emergency. All persons

should leave the area unless protected by special equipment. They should

stay away until safe return to the area has been determined and announced

to the public. In the case of water contamination, alternate sources have to

be provided.

Clean up of the effects of the disaster may require more resources than are

locally available; international emergency assistance may be required.

The affected areas should be monitored continually following the disaster.

Thorough investigation and documentation of the emergency must occur.


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7.10 Displaced pop ulat ions

General

characteristics

Displaced populations may include people settling in temporary

settlements or camps after a mass population movement; non-combatant

individuals and families forced to leave their homes due to consequences

of conflict but who remain inside their country; people expelled or fleeinga country, especially as an ethnic or national group, forced out for

economic or political reasons; and people forced to leave their homes as a

result of drought, famine, or other disaster, usually in search of food.

Typical adverse

effects

Loss of means of livelihood, loss of normal sources of food, lack of fuel

for cooking, lack of potable water, communicable diseases and over-

crowding, possibly large numbers of unaccompanied children, lack of

shelter and household necessities

Typical

emergency needs

While needs will vary according to the situation, in general they will include:

Water supply and sanitation

Short-term and long-term food

distributions

Nutritional and epidemiological

surveillance

Emergency shelter

Blankets, household fuel, and otherhousehold goods Medical supplies,

immunisation, public health

Community social services, especially

for unaccompanied children

Tracing, protection and security


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Annex 1a: Disaster Needs Assessment Report Formwith inst ruct ions

Based on format developed by the International Federation Pacific Region disaster preparedness office.

PREPARED BY:Name ofperson preparing the report

COUNTRY: Indicate thecountrywhere disaster occurred

DISTRICT/REGION:Indicate thecountry where

disaster occurred

YOUR ORGANIZATION:Indicate the name of your

organisation/branch.

DATE: Indicate the date that thereport is being prepared.

REPORT NUMBER:Indicate the number of this report,

if it to be followed by others.

When preparing the form, provide the most complete & recent information available. I n

addition, note the source of thi s data or information. For example, " 10,000 deaths

reported by the local mayor' s off ice." I f the in formation is not known, wri te, " Notknown at this time."

I. The Disaster

A. Type of Disaster: (Circle one)

Indicate the type of disaster (e.g. Cyclone, earthquake, etc.)

B. When did the disaster event occur?

Indicate the date of occurrence of the disaster event. Indicate "dates" if there were multiple events in

succession. For example, earthquake aftershocks.

C. Briefly describe the disaster (attach additional sheets if necessary)

Provide a brief narrative descriptive summary of the disaster. What were its characteristics (magnitude, wind

speed, etc.)? How severe is the damage? In narrative summary fashion, what is the extent of the losses and

what are the likely short-term and long-term needs. How many people are affected and how many regions,

districts, or city's? This narrative should be no more than 2 to 4 paragraphs long. You are just creating a quick

picture of the disaster and the resulting losses and needs.

D. Precise geographic areas and locations impacted (districts, states, towns?)

Describe the geographical range involved, including specific areas affected by secondary disasters (e.g. storm

surge, landslides, flooding), name the affected districts, states, towns, villages, etc.......................................

.................................................................................................................................................


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II. Disaster Impacts/Effects

A. How many people are affected and what percentage of the overall population is

this number?

Indicate the number of people that have been affectedeither through death, injury and /or loss of property

and homes, and then calculate what percentage of the overall population in this area is affected. If possible,

also identify the gender, age and other demographic details of the population affected.

B. How many deaths have been attributed to this disaster?

Indicate how many deaths have been attributed to this disaster. Also indicate the source of this information.

C. How many injuries have been attributed to this disaster? If possible, specify the gender

and age composition of those affected, and the cause of their injuries.

D. How many people are displaced or evacuated?Also identify where they have gone and if

possible, specify the gender, age and family composition of those affected.

E. How many families are affected? If possible, specify the gender and age composition of thoseaffected.

F. How many households or dwellings have been completely destroyed?

Indicate how many homes and dwellings have been destroyed beyond repair.

G. How many households or dwellings have been partially damaged but not

completely destroyed?Indicate how many homes and dwellings have been partially damaged, but can still be repaired when materials

become available.

H. What is the physical and/or financial damage to other property, buildings and

infrastructure in the affected area?Indicate the amount of physical damage and financial losses to business, government or private property

buildings (except for homes), and indicate what damage has occurred to infrastructure (roads, bridges,

communication lines, etc.)

I. What is the physical and/or financial damage to crops and livestock?Indicate the amount and extent of physical and financial damage to crops and livestock.

J. What are the expected financial damages and costs to businesses in the affectedarea?

Indicate the amount of financial damages and costs that businesses will incur resulting from this disaster.


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III. Local Financial, Material and Human Resources

A. What resources and capacities do the local population have for responding to this

disaster, and how might these resources be used? Indicate these below.

LOCAL CAPACITY OR RESOURCE SUGGESTIONS FOR USE

E.g.Local neighbourhood association

volunteer group

Prepare and serve food for displaced and

homeless

B. What transport and storage facilities (commercial, government, Red Cross/Red

Crescent) are available locally for immediate use?

Indicate what transport and storage facilities can be made available for immediate use in transporting and

storing emergency relief supplies .............. ................................................................. ........................................

C. What is the availability, location and condition of roads, airports, ports andrailways?

If emergency relief supplies will need to be brought in by truck, airplane, boat or train, it is important to indicate

the condition of roads, airports, ports and railways..............................................................................

D. What is the capacity of the local and national RC Society for dealing with this

disaster?

What have local and national RC Society done so far in response. What can it do in the

future?

...............................................................................................................................................


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IV. Immediate Needs

Provide the most complete and up-to-date answers as you can to these questions:

A. Has a detailed needs assessment been carried out? Please attach a copy if availableor give a summary of the priority needs below.

Describe the unmet needs in shelter, water, sanitation, food, household supplies (clothes,

blankets, cooking utensils, cooking fuel, etc.) and health (medical supplies, equipment,

facilities). Quantify and qualify the targeted needs (for example, 110 adults and 200

children need food and water for at least the next 20 days.) Attach additional sheets as

necessary.

B. Who carried out the needs assessment?

Indicate who conducted the needs assessment.

C. What is needed immediately and who will supply it? Please check or fill in the

boxes below as appropriate.

Complete the matrix for this section shown in the disaster needs assessment form.

TO BE SUPPLIED BY:

ITEM QUANTITY

NEEDED

GOVERN-

MENT

RED

CROSS

NGO'S

(specify)

OTHERS

(specify)

V. Longer-Term Needs

A. What will be needed in the longer term (after the first month) and who will

supply it? One should anticipate serious problems or needs that may arise in the

coming months resulting from the disaster and potential future events (winter or rainy

season approaching, etc.)

Complete the matrix for this section shown in the disaster needs assessment form.

TO BE SUPPLIED BY:

ITEM QUANTITY

NEEDED

GOVERN-

MENT

RED

CROSS

NGO'S

(specify)

OTHERS

(specify)


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VI. National Society Operation

A. Give a brief description of what the National Society proposes to do. (Attach

additional sheets if necessary)

Indicate what your National Society or branch proposes to do to respond to this emergency.......................

B. What is the proposed duration of this NS operation?

Indicate how long you expect to be implementing an emergency response operation.........................................

C. Which groups of people were chosen for assistance and why?Indicate and specify who will benefit from your emergency response operation, and explain why you have selected

this group or population over others. ..................................................................................................................

D. What transport will be required and who will provide it?

Indicate what transport support you will require to support the emergency relief operation. Also indicate your plan

for getting this transport. ............................................................... ............................................................. .........

E. Who will carry out the operation (e.g. NS volunteers, staff, etc.)?

Indicate and specify the human resources that you have available to carry out this emergency response operation.

F. Who is responsible for reporting to donors and when will the reports be made?

Indicate who will be communicating and reporting to donors. Indicate how often you will submit emergency

situation and emergency operation progress reports?...........................................................................

G. What items are required for the operation and from where can they be obtained?

Complete the matrix below for each item that is required for the relief operation.

Item Total Number

Required

Number

Available In

Country

Number Needed

From Outside

Nearest

Country From

Where They

Can Be

Obtained


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VII. Additional Comments, Requests, or Information

Feel free to add any important information not reflected in responses to this form. This might

include political context, local ethnic tensions, history of disasters and response in the area,and other such contextualizing factors.If this form is used for an international appeal, please provide further details in the Budget Table below.

VIII. BudgetComplete the budget matrix (number required, cost per item and total cost.

Budget Items NumberRequired

Cost Per Item

(Specify Currency)

Total Cost

Supplies

Equipment

Transport

Personnel expenses

Travel expenses

Administration expenses

Communications expenses

Other expenses associated withthe operation

TOTAL COST


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Annex 1b: Disaster Needs Assessment Report Form

Based on format developed by the International Federation Pacific Region disaster preparedness office.

PREPARED BY: COUNTRY: DISTRICT/REGION:

YOUR ORGANIZATION: DATE: REPORT NUMBER:

When preparing the form, provide the most complete & recent information

available. If the information is not known, write, "Not Known at this time."

I. The Disaster

A. Type of Disaster: (Circle one)

Cyclone Earthquake Flood Landslide

Drought Tsunami Volcanic eruption

Chemical explosion or spill Other (specify)

E. When did the disaster event occur?

..............................................................................................................................................

F. Briefly describe the disaster (attach additional sheets if necessary)

.................................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................................................

G. Precise geographic areas and locations impacted (districts, states, towns?)

.................................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................................................


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II. Disaster Impacts/Effects

K. How many people are affected and what percentage of the overall population is

this number?

...............................................................................................................................................

L. How many deaths have been attributed to this disaster? If possible, specify the

gender and age composition of those affected.

...............................................................................................................................................

M. How many injuries have been attributed to this disaster? If possible, specify the

gender and age composition of those affected, and the cause of their injuries.

...............................................................................................................................................

N. How many people are displaced or evacuated? Also identify where they have gone

and if possible, specify the gender, age and family composition of those affected.

.................................................................................................................................................

O. How many families are affected? If possible, specify the gender and age composition

of those affected.

.................................................................................................................................................

P. How many households or dwellings have been completely destroyed?

.................................................................................................................................................

Q. How many households or dwellings have been partially damaged but not

completely destroyed?

...............................................................................................................................................

R. What is the physical and/or financial damage to other property, buildings andinfrastructure in the affected area?

.................................................................................................................................................

S. What is the physical and/or financial damage to crops and livestock?

.................................................................................................................................................

T. What are the expected financial damages and costs to businesses in the affected

area?

.................................................................................................................................................


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III. Local Financial, Material and Human Resources

E. What resources and capacities do the local population have for responding to this

disaster, and how might these resources be used?

LOCAL CAPACITY OR RESOURCE SUGGESTIONS FOR USE

E.g.Local neighbourhood association

volunteer group

Prepare and serve food for displaced and

homeless

F. What transport and storage facilities (commercial, government, Red Cross/Red

Crescent) are available locally for immediate use?

...............................................................................................................................................

...............................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................................................

G. What is the availability, location and condition of roads, airports, ports and

railways?

.................................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................................................

H. What is the capacity of the local and national RC Society for dealing with this

disaster?

...............................................................................................................................................

...............................................................................................................................................

...............................................................................................................................................


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2000 Disaster Emergency Needs Assessment Disaster Preparedness Training Programme IFRC

Documents

Transcript of 2000 Disaster Emergency Needs Assessment Disaster Preparedness Training Programme IFRC